Overview

Explore the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, a land of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and profound spirituality. This 9-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, breathtaking scenery, and immersive experiences, culminating in visits to some of Bhutan’s most iconic sites, including the Tiger’s Nest and Chele La Pass.

Highlights

• Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)
• Explore the vibrant capital city of Thimphu
• Visit the historic Punakha Dzong
• Experience the serene beauty of Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley
• Scenic drive to Chele La Pass
• Discover the cultural treasures of Paro

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu

• Arrive at Paro International Airport.
• Transfer to Thimphu
• Drive to Thimphu (1 hour).
• Explore local markets and Thimphu town.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

• Visit the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum, Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong. and Traditional Medicine Institute.
• Explore the weekend market.
• Visit the Takin Reserve.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 3: Tango and Cheri Monastery Hike

• Morning:
  • Drive to the base of Tango Monastery (14 km, 30 minutes from Thimphu).
  • Begin the hike to Tango Monastery (approx. 1 hour).
  • Visit Tango Monastery, an important center for higher Buddhist studies.
  • Explore the monastery, interact with monks, and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
  • Hike back down to the base.
• Afternoon:
  • Drive to the base of Cheri Monastery (15 minutes from Tango).
  • Begin the hike to Cheri Monastery (approx. 45 minutes).
  • Visit Cheri Monastery, the first monastery established in Bhutan by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620.
  • Explore the monastery, meditate, and soak in the serene surroundings.
  • Hike back down to the base.
• Return to Thimphu in the evening.
• Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha

• Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (2.5 hours).
• Visit the 108 chortens at Dochula Pass.
• Explore Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang.
• Walk on the Longest Suspension Bridge
• Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha to Gangtey

• Drive to Gangtey (3 hours) via Phobjikha Valley.
• Visit Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Goempa).
• Explore the valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
• Overnight stay in Gangtey.

Day 6: Gangtey to Paro

• Drive back to Paro (5 hours).
• Visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) and Paro Rinpung Dzong.
• Visit local handicraft shops for souvenir shopping.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 7: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike

• Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
• Hike to the monastery, enjoy breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
• Return to Paro.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 8: Paro – Chele La Pass Excursion

• Drive to Chele La Pass
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas from the pass.
• Return to Paro.
• Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 9: Departure from Paro

• Transfer to Paro International Airport.
• Departure with wonderful memories of Bhutan.

Additional Information

• Best time to visit: March to May and September to November
• Difficulty level: Moderate (includes some hiking)
• Altitude: Ranges from 1,200 meters in Punakha to 3,100 meters at Chele La Pass

Embark on this enchanting journey through Bhutan and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this Himalayan kingdom. Book your 9-day Bhutan package today and experience the magic of the Land of the Thunder Dragon!